Robotic technology company FBR Limited (ASX:FBR) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Liebherr-Mischtechnik GmbH, a global manufacturer and supplier of high quality systems for the mixing, batching and pumping of concrete, with the intention of cooperating to industrialise and commercialise the next generation Hadrian X® automated bricklaying robot for the global construction market.
Liebherr-Mischtechnik, based in Germany, is a division of the Liebherr International Group, one of the world’s largest, most diverse and highly regarded equipment manufacturers. The MoU is non-binding except for where otherwise provided below.
The cooperation is comprised of two phases. Phase 1 is focused on ensuring that the next generation Hadrian X® is suitable for scalable industrialisation and commercialisation. Under Phase 1, Liebherr-Mischtechnik will support FBR in the further development of the Hadrian X®, with the primary goal of ensuring that the Hadrian X® is designed for reliable, continuous operation in tough job site conditions throughout its economic life, and for manufacturing at the scale and cost necessary for serial production and full commercialisation.
Phase 2 will commence upon execution by both parties of a long-term manufacturing and commercialisation agreement. This agreement will address, among other things, the appointment of Liebherr-Mischtechnik as exclusive manufacturer of Hadrian X® robots, the scope and implementation of joint commercialisation activities including supply, service and lease structure, and intellectual property licensing. Pre-requisites for progressing to Phase 2 include reaching mutual agreement on the business plan, go-to-market strategy, customer service strategy and commercial viability of the Hadrian X® in key markets and achievement of key performance targets.
“We are pleased to be working with Liebherr-Mischtechnik GmbH on the industrialisation and global commercialisation of the Hadrian X®,” FBR managing director Mike Pivac said.
“Liebherr and FBR share a vision of significantly increasing the safety, sustainability and efficiency of the construction industry. Both companies recognise that the digitalisation and automation of processes on the job site are the key enablers for realising this vision. The cooperation with Liebherr-Mischtechnik is a significant step toward commercialisation for FBR and recognises the strong relationship we have built with the Liebherr team over the past year of technical and commercial collaboration and knowledge exchange.
“This Memorandum of Understanding demonstrates a clear pathway for FBR to achieve scale with the support of an aligned partner who understands the future construction industry landscape and has the technical capability, reputation and professionalism to deliver 21st century machinery such as the Hadrian X® to the world.”
A Liebherr-Mischtechnik spokesperson added:
“Liebherr is unique in manufacturing equipment for all phases of construction; from earthmoving and deep foundation drilling, to manufacturing and transportation of concrete, as well as diverse lifting solutions. We are continuously investigating new and innovative technologies to ensure our customers’ success on the job-site now and in the future.”
